Summer here and it is hot. Housing accounts for 20% of total US energy use with heating and cooling consuming a whopping 44% of residential energy use.

Here is an alternatives to Air Conditioners, the Evaporative Cooler (also known as a swamp cooler). These devices cool air through simple evaporation of water.  These are best used in hot conditions where the humidity is low. The Southwest including Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, Arizona are prime places for Evaporative Coolers.

Evaporative Coolers are cheaper than air conditioners and cost much less to operate.  They do require a constant supply of water to wet the pads. Portable units around $100 are available. Some local power utility companies offer rebates, so check with your local utility.

Be sure to read our article Air Conditioner Energy Savings